Rumours that Hollyoaks is "facing the axe" have today been rubbished by the teen soap's production company and Channel 4.

Earlier today, a newspaper claimed that Channel 4's new chief creative officer Jay Hunt - who takes office at the network next week - has plans to scrap the serial following its 15-year stint on the air.

The report suggested that the recent departure of Hollyoaks' series producer Paul Marquess and appointment of Gareth Philips as acting producer came as part of a plan to "breathe new life" into the programme amid fears over Hunt's arrival.

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However, a spokesperson for Hollyoaks' production firm Lime Pictures told Digital Spy this afternoon: "There is no link between Paul Marquess's departure and Jay Hunt's arrival. Paul Marquess agreed to a 12-month term and in that time he has done a great job of delivering dynamic storylines and exciting new characters.

"The show is still the only nightly drama for young people and remains hugely popular with audiences. Hollyoaks is currently enjoying consistent viewing figures and the show's success is reflected in Channel 4's increased investment in Hollyoaks' brand extension - programming includes another series of Hollyoaks Later, the Hollyoaks Music Show and a number of multi-platform initiatives for E4.com. There have been no discussions of the show being axed."

Camilla Campbell, Head of Channel 4 Drama, added: "Channel 4 have absolutely no plans to axe Hollyoaks. It's a crucial part of the schedule. Soaps are ever evolving and with some exciting new storylines coming up, we look forward to seeing the exciting new journeys Gareth Philips will take us and the Hollyoaks fans on in the future."

Channel 4 recently secured a seven-figure sponsorship deal with camera manufacturer Nikon for Hollyoaks, which will see the company's branding accompany the soap's airings for the next 12 months.

Show sources also noted that Hollyoaks' regular slots on Channel 4 and E4 - including first-look screenings, catch-up episodes and omnibus editions - make the programme a key and prominent part of both channels' drama output.